Everyday Anarchism
130. Graeber's Debt Chapter 8: Credit vs. Bullion, and the Cycles of History
Aug 21, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Luke Kemp explores the intricate relationship between credit and bullion through the lens of history. He delves into David Graeber's critiques of traditional debt systems, advocating for 'human economies' that prioritize personal relationships. The conversation uncovers the cyclical nature of money, revealing how historical debt cancellation practices in civilizations like Sumeria have shaped concepts of social justice. Both Kemp and the host challenge societal norms, navigating the complexities of debt, freedom, and the moral responsibilities they entail.
33:58
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast presents debt as both a moral obligation and an intrinsic aspect of human relationships, challenging traditional societal perceptions.
- Historical analysis reveals that shifts between credit and bullion align with social stability or unrest, highlighting the cyclical nature of debt over time.
Deep dives
Dilemmas of Debt Perception
The concept of debt is framed as a duality between societal perception and reality. On one hand, the notion exists that individuals are inherently responsible for their debts, creating a moral obligation that is often viewed as a societal dilemma. Conversely, the idea of primordial debt proposes that from birth, individuals owe everything to the world around them, which complicates the moral landscape and emphasizes a view of debt as an intrinsic aspect of human relationships. This tension reflects a broader philosophical questioning about the nature of individual responsibility and the societal structures that underpin economic interactions.
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